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Summary
This reports documents the activities and findings of a reconnaissance trip undertaken on behalf of MarocAroundTheClock for the construction of a traditional Iraqi mudhif, installation
of a potable water supply and the construction of toilet block facilities at a school in Basra and another in the marsh lands of southern Iraq.
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Introduction
The project’s instigator, Mike Laird, has through discussions with DR Sam Balal (an Iraqi doctor now resident in the UK) identified various needs both in Basra and in the marsh lands.
As part of its support MarocAroundTheClock wishes to assist in the implementation of these projects as follows:
| i) | to build a large traditional mudhif to the west of the town of Qurnah, in Basra Province |
| ii) | to build a toilet block and hand washing facilities for a school in Basra which presently has no such provision |
| iii) | and to build a toilet block and hand washing facilities beside the mudhif. |
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Aims
The aims of this report are to document the activities undertaken on the recce and subsequent meetings / discussion, and to indicate the feasibility of undertaking the planned activities.
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Reconnaissance Visit
Mike Laird visited Basra and the Marsh Lands in October 2011 (he had previously visited in January 2011). The recce party consisted of Mike Laird, Dr Sam Balal, Mr Abu Akrem, Mr Abu Zaineb and Mr Abass al-Nahi.
Due to circumstance, the aims of the project have changed slightly since the first reconnaissance visit was carried out.
We were met at the border by regular vehicles and drivers. Road blocks are common in both the city and rural areas. Westerners are treated well but do attract attention and additional questions from the authorities.
The food throughout the trip was of the highest standards. It is varied, interesting and readily available in Basra. Hygiene standards drop in small towns and rural areas and a reduction in choice and variety
is also apparent. It is recommended not to drink the tap water. Bottled water is readily available.
No health issues occurred during the visit. The standards of medical care available in Iraq are modest at best so al sensible precautions should be taken and First Aid should be carried.
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Location
Iraq is situated in the Middle East and perhaps the easiest way to get there is via Kuwait. BA and other airlines fly regularly from London. From Kuwait City take a taxi overland to Abdali and cross the border to Safwan in Iraq. From there continue overland to Basra.
It is advisable to arrange all transport in advance with known parties. A fixer or interpreter is also essential to those who do not speak local languages and dialects.
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Communications
In towns and cities throughout Iraq it is easy to find payphones. Mobile telephones work in cities but may be unreliable elsewhere. Internet access is not widely available and if you do find it be ready for it to be significantly slower than you are used to.
In rural areas it is unlikely that mobile phones will work and there will not be any payphones or internet.
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Climate
The weather in Iraq is extremely varied and you need to be prepared for all eventualities. In summer the temperature can easily exceed 50C and in winter it can dip well below 0C. Typically temperatures drop sharply at night. Altitude is also a factor.
During the project planned for October 2012 we can expect daytime highs of 35C.
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Local Factors
Major parts of the country are still struggling to recover following the years of conflict. The FCO website should be consulted for current information and particular issues. There is a significant military and police presence on the streets which should not be taken as anything more than ‘business as usual’.
Foreigners do attract curiosity but the great majority of Iraqis are very welcoming and friendly. Maintain a low profile and be conscious of Muslim etiquette.
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Preliminary Site Investigation
We have identified two schools in Basra City which require differing degrees of assistance with their toilets and hand washing facilities. Site visits were undertaken.
In addition various potential sites were considered for the building of the mudhif. The eventual outcome is that we have agreed to build it for the M’Hyatt community who live to the west of Qurnah.
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Project Scope
Work on the toilet blocks and related washing facilities will need a structured approach. We have engaged Mr Abu Akrem who is a local engineer, who visited the schools with us and who will be able to source the necessary materials. Mr Abass al-Nahi will arrange for the necessary permissions to be in place.
Funds are being sought from a variety of sources and the project team will be further enhanced by 8-10 paying volunteers who are travelling from the UK.
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| 11. |
Labour Requirements
The labour requirements for work on the toilets and washing facilities will be adequately met by the British volunteers, under the direction of Abu Akrem.
The labour requirements for the construction of the mudhif will be met by the local M’Hatt community and supplemented by the British volunteers.
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Initial Project Report